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Dr. Tech: Mac OS9 offers good features, smooth operating OS9
What about the new version of Macintosh operating system?
Mac OS9 is running on my PowerMac and here are some reactions. Sherlock 2, the Mac OS search program has a new look with graphics for each of its functions. It can be used to search your hard drive or search the internet.
The “Multiple Users” feature might be helpful if you need more than one person using a single computer with the need for security and privacy. Each user will use the computer by entering a password and then will be greeted by his own desktop and assigned options. Limits can be setup for certain files and programs.
The voiceprint password is a nice feature. It will accept your voice as a password. However, any other sounds in the room may interfere.
Keychain is an attribute which will combine all your user identifications and passwords to be opened by one password.
Apple updates will be automatic with the Auto Updating feature. This means if a new update is available and you are out of date, it will download the file for you.
File encryption is a new feature which will let you encrypt the file and give it a password. This file can only be opened and viewed by the person who has the password.
These programs will work well under Mac OS9:
America on Line version 4, Global Village Fax software and Netscape Communicator 4.5 are compatible with OS9.
Some non-apple printers may need updates, SoftWindows 98 will not run under this system. Changes in the sound setup cause a problem with ixmicro TV software. Both software companies are aware of the problems and are dealing with them.
One nuisance is a little yellow warning box that pops up on the screen to remind me that I must be connected to the internet to use an internet application.
In conclusion, the leading publishing software, Pagemaker, Quark XPress and Photoshop seem to run well with Mac OS9. Before you run out and buy this new package, be sure to check with your software vendors about any known conflicts.
SCSI Problems
This may seem like an old problem, but I have received a few calls in recent months on this problem. If you have turned on your Mac and nothing happens except a question mark on the screen, you might think it is time to panic.
The first action to try is disconnect the external cable from the SCSI port.
If the computer starts normally, then the problem is in the external SCSI devices. Check the identification numbers of all devices. Two devices cannot have the same number settings.
It helps to remember that your SCSI hard drive is factory set at zero and the CD ROM Drive has a setting of three. Your scanner or external drive must have a different settings. A Zip Drive only gives you a choice of 5 or 6. Zips also have a termination switch. If the Zip is the last item connected to the chain of devices, then termination should be on.
If other devices are connected to the back of the Zip Drive then termination must be off. Check to see if a terminator is in place.
Please call with your questions. I have changed the 800 number to ring to my cell phone. Any computer user can call.
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